Dedication of John Lateran Homily

Today we observe the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome.

If we were to reflect upon the many churches in Rome the first we would probably think of is Saint Peter’s Basilica. It is this church which is often associated with the holy father and is seen as the center of Catholicism. The Archbascilica of Saint John Lateran is the oldest of the major papal basilicas, the oldest of any church in the city of Rome, and the oldest basilica in the Western world.

This basilica is also important because it is the cathedral of the Diocese of Rome. This means that found within it’s walls is the cathedra romana (Roman chair) which is symbolic of the role of the holy father as the Bishop of Rome. This chair is symbolic of the pope’s authority and pastoral role as the shepherd of the Church in Rome and the successor of Saint Peter.

Every church is dedicated in a solemn liturgical ceremony performed by the bishop. During this ceremony the building is being set aside for sacred worship. This ritual will include the anointing of the altar with Sacred Chrism which is symbolic of Christ the “Anointed One.” Through this ritual the church is dedicated to Christian worship.

Throughout the course of a year we celebrate a few dedication of churches on our liturgical calendar. Those being the dedication of the local church (December 2nd for us), the dedication of the cathedral to which one belongs, the dedication of the Lateran Basilica that is celebrated today, and the optional celebration of the dedication of Saint Peter and Paul Basilicas.

Some wrongly see a church building as being unimportant. We must remember that the church building is a visible sign of an image of the Church as the “temple of God built from living stones.” This people being the baptized people of God. The dedication of such a building is a symbolic act that not only consecrates the building, but marks the whole church community’s commitment to being a living witness of Christ in the world.

From the prophet Ezekiel we are given the image of water flowing from under the temple which in return grows into a great river which brings forth life to barren lands. This is symbolic of God’s life giving presence which like this small stream will grow to transform everything that it touches. In return we have grace being poured out to us by God especially seen within the sacraments.

Through our celebration of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome may we continue to allow God to be found at work within our life. The Church is alive and well and by entering fully into it we are sent forth in order that we may live for the Lord. This might seem to be a difficult task, but nothing is too difficult if we commit ourself to Christ and allow Him to be found at work within us.

Let us remain consecrated to God by how we come to orient our life unto Him.